Apple may have preparing to launch a new smart home hub by the end of 2025, marking a significant move into the smart home ecosystem.
Highlights
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the device—codenamed J490—is expected to feature a 7-inch touch display, a front-facing camera, integrated speakers, a rechargeable battery, and a new operating system designed specifically for home automation.
The device is said to resemble a compact iPad and could be mounted on walls or placed on flat surfaces, serving as a central control point for smart appliances, communication, and entertainment.
Hardware and Design
- Display and Form Factor – The J490 will reportedly feature a 7-inch square display with a relatively thick bezel. Designed for both wall-mounted and tabletop use, the device is optimized for areas such as kitchens, living rooms, and workspaces.
- Camera and Audio – A front-facing camera will support video features such as FaceTime, while built-in speakers and a battery will allow for cordless functionality in various parts of the home.
- Mounting Options – Apple is said to be developing modular accessories, including wall-mount kits and speaker bases, to expand the hub’s usability in different environments.
Software and AI
- homeOS – A new operating system, tentatively named homeOS, is expected to debut alongside the device. It will be tailored for smart home environments, supporting automation, device control, and a streamlined user experience.
- User Interface – The UI is anticipated to blend elements from watchOS and iOS StandBy mode, offering a widget-rich layout and a Dock-style navigation bar.
- Apple Intelligence Integration – The hub will reportedly incorporate Apple Intelligence, enabling users to interact with the device using voice commands for tasks such as app control, home automation, intercom functionality, and media playback.
A Higher-End Model in Development
Beyond the J490, Apple is also developing a more advanced smart display under the codename J595.
This premium model is expected to feature a robotic arm that adjusts the display’s position, potentially for features like face tracking during video calls or adaptive display angles. The J595 is not expected to launch until 2026 or later.
Strategic Positioning and Market Implications
With this upcoming product line, Apple appears to be expanding its presence in a smart home market currently led by Amazon’s Echo Show and Google’s Nest Hub.
Unlike previous iterations of the HomePod, which focused mainly on audio, the new smart hub will aim to deliver a more comprehensive solution for connected living spaces.
Reports suggest that Apple has streamlined certain features in the J490 model to meet its 2025 release window.
This approach indicates a tiered product strategy, allowing Apple to establish a presence in the smart display market while continuing to develop more experimental features in parallel.
Although Apple has not officially confirmed any details, the timing and scope of this device could signal a shift in its smart home strategy—prioritizing AI integration, cross-device connectivity, and new hardware categories.
If reports are accurate, the J490 could mark Apple’s most significant new product launch in the home space in years.
